Historical and Cultural Journey in Ravenna, Italy

A Day of Discovery in Ravenna

Today was all about immersing ourselves in Ravenna's less-trodden paths. It's easy to get caught up in the mosaic-filled churches, which are undeniably spectacular, but I wanted to delve deeper into what else this charming city has to offer. Hans, ever the patient companion, was game for anything, and together we set out to explore Ravenna's art scene, green spaces, and, of course, its culinary delights.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at L'Acciuga Osteria. This delightful spot is known for its seafood. I opted for a simple yet satisfying pastry and cappuccino, while Hans, with his German practicality, went for a more substantial breakfast of eggs and local cheese. Fuelled up, we were ready to explore the Ravenna Art Museum.


Experience exquisite Italian dining at L'Acciuga Osteria in Ravenna – where seafood meets tradition in an unforgettable culinary journey.

The Ravenna Art Museum proved to be a treasure trove of artistic expression. From classical paintings to contemporary installations, the museum offered a diverse range of styles and mediums. I was particularly drawn to the modern mosaics. They were a fascinating contrast to the ancient mosaics we've seen in the churches, showcasing how this art form continues to evolve and inspire. Hans, with his engineering background, was intrigued by the technical skill and precision required to create these intricate works.

Wandering through the museum, I felt a sense of connection to the artists and their stories. It's incredible how art can transcend time and culture, allowing us to glimpse into the hearts and minds of those who came before us. The museum itself is well-maintained and thoughtfully curated. It provided a peaceful and contemplative space to appreciate the power of human creativity.


Explore the artistic legacy of Ravenna at the Ravenna Art Museum, a cultural highlight showcasing diverse collections and temporary exhibitions.

After immersing ourselves in the art world, we decided to embrace the beautiful weather and head to Teodorico Park.

Teodorico Park was a welcome escape from the city's hustle and bustle. As we strolled along the tree-lined paths, we were greeted by lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and the gentle sounds of nature. It was the perfect place to unwind and recharge after our museum visit. We found a quiet bench overlooking the lake and simply sat there, soaking in the tranquility.

The park is named after the Mausoleum of Theodoric, which stands nearby. While we didn't visit the mausoleum itself today, its presence added a sense of historical significance to the park. It's fascinating to think about the people who have walked these grounds over the centuries, each with their own stories and experiences.

As we walked, children played, couples strolled hand-in-hand, and families enjoyed picnics on the grass. It was heartwarming to see people connecting with nature and each other in this peaceful setting. Hans and I even rented a paddleboat and spent a leisurely hour exploring the lake. It was a bit comical, as neither of us is particularly skilled at paddling, but we laughed our way around the water, enjoying the sunshine and the fresh air.


Experience the serene charm of Teodorico Park in Ravenna, a beautiful urban oasis perfect for relaxation, wildlife watching, and scenic strolls.

By now, our stomachs were starting to rumble, so we made our way to Al Cairoli for lunch.

Al Cairoli was a delightful culinary experience. This restaurant is known for its traditional Emilian-Romagnan cuisine with a modern twist. I decided to try the strozzapreti with ragu, a regional specialty, while Hans opted for the cappelletti in brodo. Both dishes were absolutely delicious, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The pasta was clearly homemade, and the sauces were rich and complex. We savored every bite, accompanied by a glass of local wine.

The atmosphere at Al Cairoli was warm and inviting. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. I even managed to pick up a few cooking tips from our server, who was happy to share some of the restaurant's secrets. I'm eager to try recreating these dishes back in Hannover, using the fresh herbs from my garden.

Sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones that take you off the beaten path, allowing you to discover the hidden gems that a city has to offer.

With the afternoon sun casting long shadows, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at QuiEte. This charming shop is known for its handcrafted goods and local products. I found a beautiful ceramic bowl, perfect for serving Thai curries back home, and Hans picked out a bottle of local olive oil to bring back to Germany. It's always nice to find unique souvenirs that remind us of our travels.


Explore QuiEte, a charming gift shop in Ravenna, where unique local crafts and souvenirs celebrate the city's rich cultural heritage.

For our final culinary experience of the day, we chose Osteria Il Paiolo for dinner.

Osteria Il Paiolo offered a cozy and intimate setting for our evening meal. The restaurant is known for its traditional Romagnan cuisine and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. We started with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats, followed by the pasta. The service was attentive, and the ambiance was just what we needed to wind down after a day of exploring. It was the perfect way to end our day of discovery in Ravenna.

As we walked back to Palazzo Galletti Abbiosi - Hostel, I reflected on the day's adventures. We had explored Ravenna's art scene, found solace in its green spaces, and indulged in its culinary delights. It was a day that reminded me of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the simple things, and embracing the unexpected. And to share it with Hans makes everything even more special.


Experience the charm of Ravenna at Palazzo Galletti Abbiosi - a centrally located hostel with top-notch amenities and local attractions.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare in Classe and the Giardino Rasponi. I am particularly excited about seeing the Basilica, as I've heard it boasts some of the most stunning mosaics in Ravenna. We also plan to stop by Fargo, a local bar, for an evening drink. I'm sure it will be another day filled with discovery and delight.

Even though I forgot my sunscreen, which is annoying, as well as an extra memory card, I am so happy to be here and share my experiences with you all!

Until tomorrow!